Synchronous learning, also known as real-time learning, helped make the asynchronous form of learning possible. Synchronous e-learning was implemented in distance learning first; it was an option for learners interested in attending courses online had difficulty attending courses in a specific location. The difference in synchronous and asynchronous is that this form of e-learning requires the student and facilitator to collaborate online at the same scheduled time.
Some forms of exchange include:
TV
webcasting
podcasting
videoconferencing
Hrastinski (2008) states that some of the benefits to synchronous e-learning are that "motivation of learners can be achieved in higher levels since the type of communication provided in synchronous e-learning environment is more similar to face-to-face communication and provides interaction as much as the one achieved in classroom environment” (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 450). Shauna (2006) elaborates further on these benefits by stating: “Students have opportunity to get immediate feedback on their performance and get guidance to complete exercises, which motivates and increases student learning (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 450). The facilitator can monitor progress of student and tailor lessons if needed to meet the intended purpose for the student.
One disadvantage of this format of learning is that the learning requires immediate exchange and does not allow the students to research and internalize the materials from the lessons first. Rick (2001) elaborates further: “[F]rom the teachers’ point of view, synchronous e-learning requires well-managed schedule, time zones and also coordination of participants” (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 451).
Video This video explains the advantages and disadvantages of synchronous learning.
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning, also known as real-time learning, helped make the asynchronous form of learning possible. Synchronous e-learning was implemented in distance learning first; it was an option for learners interested in attending courses online had difficulty attending courses in a specific location. The difference in synchronous and asynchronous is that this form of e-learning requires the student and facilitator to collaborate online at the same scheduled time.
Some forms of exchange include:
Hrastinski (2008) states that some of the benefits to synchronous e-learning are that "motivation of learners can be achieved in higher levels since the type of communication provided in synchronous e-learning environment is more similar to face-to-face communication and provides interaction as much as the one achieved in classroom environment” (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 450). Shauna (2006) elaborates further on these benefits by stating: “Students have opportunity to get immediate feedback on their performance and get guidance to complete exercises, which motivates and increases student learning (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 450). The facilitator can monitor progress of student and tailor lessons if needed to meet the intended purpose for the student.
One disadvantage of this format of learning is that the learning requires immediate exchange and does not allow the students to research and internalize the materials from the lessons first. Rick (2001) elaborates further: “[F]rom the teachers’ point of view, synchronous e-learning requires well-managed schedule, time zones and also coordination of participants” (as cited in Er, 2009, p. 451).
Video
This video explains the advantages and disadvantages of synchronous learning.
References
Er, E., Özden, M., & Arifoğlu, A. (2009). LIVELMS: A blended e-Learning environment: A model proposition for integration of asynchronous and synchronous e-Learning. International Journal Of Learning, 16(2), 449-460. Retrieved from
https://ehis.ebscohost.com/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=2&hid=103&sid=552cbd9a-1fd1-4148-9cea-47c0d608ceb7%40sessionmgr112
Hrastinski, S. (2008). Asynchronous and synchronous e-Learning. Retrieved from http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/EQM0848.pdf
Rick, J. (2001). Blended learning maximizing the impact of an integrated solution. Retrieved from ftp://ftp-fc.sc.egov.usda.gov/NEDC/isd/blended_learning.pdf
Shauna, S. (2006). A tale of two systems Elluminate Live vs Macromedia Breeze. Retrieved from http://www.uwex.edu/disted/conference/Resource_library/handouts/06_4385H.pdf